Value Stream / Continuous Improvement Leader

Job Title: Value Stream / Continuous Improvement Leader
Department: Operations / Manufacturing
Reports To: Plant Manager or Operations Manager
FLSA Status: Exempt
Location: [Insert Location]

Position Summary

The Value Stream / Continuous Improvement Leader is responsible for overseeing the performance, productivity, and profitability of assigned value streams while leading continuous improvement initiatives across operations. This role combines hands-on leadership of cross-functional teams with a strong focus on Lean manufacturing, process optimization, and waste elimination to achieve operational excellence, enhance customer satisfaction, and drive sustainable growth.

Key Responsibilities

Value Stream Leadership

• Lead the operational performance of assigned value streams, ensuring safety, quality, delivery, and cost targets are met or exceeded.

• Coordinate workflow and resources across functions (production, quality, engineering, supply chain) to ensure seamless execution.

• Monitor performance metrics (KPIs) and take corrective actions to address deviations from targets.

• Facilitate daily tier meetings to align teams on priorities, problem-solving, and accountability.

• Ensure customer requirements are met through effective scheduling, resource planning, and quality assurance.

Continuous Improvement Leadership

• Develop, implement, and sustain Lean / Six Sigma initiatives across value streams.

• Lead Kaizen events, 5S programs, root cause analysis (RCA), and other CI tools to drive measurable improvements.

• Partner with leadership and frontline employees to identify and eliminate non-value-added activities.

• Train, mentor, and coach team members on Lean principles and problem-solving methodologies.

• Analyze data and implement process changes to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and optimize flow.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with engineering to support new product introductions and process validation.

• Work closely with supply chain to optimize material flow and inventory levels.

• Collaborate with quality to address non-conformance issues and strengthen preventive systems.

• Support HR in developing skill matrices, training programs, and team capability building.

Safety, Compliance & Culture

• Champion a safety-first culture, ensuring compliance with OSHA and company safety standards.

• Promote employee engagement, accountability, and a culture of continuous improvement.

• Ensure compliance with company policies, ISO standards, and regulatory requirements.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelors degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Industrial Technology, or related field (preferred).

• 5+ years of experience in manufacturing operations, value stream management, or process improvement leadership.

• Proven track record in Lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other CI methodologies.

• Experience in a high-mix, low-volume, or complex manufacturing environment preferred.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong leadership and team development skills.

• Ability to analyze complex data and translate into actionable plans.

• Excellent facilitation and communication skills for all organizational levels.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office and data visualization tools; ERP/MRP experience preferred.

• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification strongly preferred.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Safety incident rate reduction.

• Achievement of OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness) targets.

• Reduction in lead time and WIP inventory.

• Cost savings from CI initiatives.

• Employee engagement and participation in improvement projects.

If you want, I can also prepare a version in your standard job description format so it matches the style youve used for roles like your Continuous Improvement / Metal Supervisor posting. That way, its consistent for recruiting and internal posting.

Do you want me to format it that way next?

You said:

add metal mechanic/supervisor experience also

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